Ethiopia reiterates strong commitment to protecting traditional knowledge of local communities

Addis Ababa, December 6, 2024 (FMC) — Ethiopia participated in the 48th and 49th sessions of the Intergovernmental Committee on Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources, Traditional Knowledge, and Folklore, organized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

Representing Ethiopia, Mr. Woldu Yemessel, Director General of the Ethiopians Intellectual Property Authority, attended the sessions, underscoring Ethiopia’s strong commitment to protecting traditional knowledge (TK) and the rights of local communities.

In May 2024, WIPO member states achieved a milestone by adopting a treaty on Genetic Resources associated with Traditional Knowledge (GRTK), which safeguards genetically resources associated with traditional knowledge, the Ethiopian Permanent Mission in Geneva recalled today.

The treaty marks a significant step in protecting and intellectual heritage of indigenous peoples and local communities.

The committee continues its work on exchanging views on the protection of TK and TCEs. aiming to develop international legal framework that safeguard the rights of indigenous peoples, local communities, and TK holders.

On the sidelines of the IGC meetings, Mr. Woldu held discussions with WIPO officials to explore Ethiopia’s aspirations for further developing its intellectual property (IP) sector.

He emphasized Ethiopia’s need for technical assistance and capacity-building support from WIPO to strengthen its IP system.